Matthew Mutamiri: A Change Practitioner - Believing in the Power of Action

Matthew Mutamiri is a change practitioner deeply committed to transforming healthcare and the community in Brantford. Born and raised in Zimbabwe, he brings a global perspective to his role as the Clinical Manager for Inpatient Mental Health & Spiritual Care at Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS). For Matthew, leadership goes beyond managing a department—it’s about creating a compassionate, inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and valued.

As a resident of Brantford, Matthew is dedicated to supporting his local community. He is driven by the belief that true change starts with individuals taking responsibility for the impact they want to make, both within their organization and their community. “We have to be the change we want to see in the world. If we’re not doing it ourselves, how can we expect others to follow?”

As a father of three boys, he strives to show his children that hard work, determination, and integrity lead to positive change. “It’s important for me to show my boys that if you work hard and remain focused, you can make a real difference. I want them to understand that the impact you make matters, and that hard work always pays off.”

Inclusivity is Part of Quality of Care

With a focus on creating meaningful change within healthcare, Matthew works to ensure that BCHS supports individuals from all walks of life. “We need to show up for people in a way that makes them feel understood, especially those from diverse or marginalized communities,” he says. “Our role is more than just treating people—it’s about making sure they feel heard, valued, and respected. Whether someone is seeking care for mental health issues, chronic illness, or trauma, they should feel like they are entering a place where their well-being is the top priority,” Matthew explains. His approach to healthcare emphasizes empathy and respect, believing that creating an environment where patients feel safe and valued is just as important as the quality of care they receive.

Educating the Next Generation

Matthew’s commitment to change extends beyond BCHS. He also teaches at McMaster University and Conestoga College, where he shapes the future of healthcare professionals. Through his role as an educator, Matthew instills in his students the values of empathy, understanding, and inclusivity.

“I want my students to understand that healthcare is not just about treating the illness—it’s about the person. I want them to carry that perspective with them, wherever they go."

He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and growth, encouraging his students to be active change-makers in their communities. Matthew believes that the future of healthcare relies not just on clinical expertise, but on the compassion and integrity of the professionals who provide care.

Championing Diversity and Inclusion

Matthew is also deeply involved in creating spaces where everyone feels they belong. He is an active member of the Black Employee Resource Group, where he helps foster a supportive environment for Black employees at BCHS. For Matthew, being part of this group is an essential way of driving change within the organization. He works to ensure that the voices of Black employees are heard, valued, and empowered, creating a space where everyone can feel respected and supported in their professional journey. “We have to make sure that people from all backgrounds feel like they have a place here,” he says.

“When we make room for diverse voices, we not only improve our work environment, but also enrich the care we provide to our community.”

Matthew’s philosophy is simple but powerful: be the change you want to see. For him, this means taking action—every day—to create a better healthcare system, a more inclusive community, and a brighter future for those who need it most. “Change is not something that just happens around you—it’s something you have to make happen. It’s about looking at your role in the system and doing everything you can to make it better for everyone,” Matthew asserts.

Sadza

Click here for Matthew's recipe.

This feature is part of the “I Belong” campaign, where BCHS employees, staff, and volunteers are given the opportunity to share their personal stories, strengthening a culture of belonging that empowers each individual and deepens our collective mission to provide exceptional care. Together, we’re creating a more inclusive, connected, and empowered BCHS.